Ministers Inspect Coastal Projects & Aid Fishermen

Ministers A. Srinath and V.K. Rajeev conducted an inspection of key development projects in Rameswaram and Mandapam on Tuesday. They observed subsidised seaweed cultivation and cage fish farming, interacting with local fishermen to understand the impact and reaffirm government welfare assistance.

The inspection included a visit to the West Wadi fishing village to review newly completed groyne structures. These wave-breaker structures, built at an estimated cost of ₹25 crores, are designed to combat coastal erosion and ensure safe berthing for fishing vessels. The team also assessed the final construction stages of a new fish auction hall.

Further enhancing fishermen's livelihoods, Minister Srinath distributed inboard/outboard motors to 28 traditional fishermen under a subsidy scheme, valued at approximately ₹72.18 lakhs. He also presented a cheque for ₹2 lakhs to the family of a fisherman from Rameswaram who accidentally fell into the sea on February 28, 2026.

Addressing grievances, the minister received petitions from fishermen and assured appropriate action. He later visited the Pamban fishermen's residential colony to offer condolences to families whose relatives, 12 fishermen, were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy and are currently imprisoned. Minister Srinath assured that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is taking steps for their release.